Bella's Point of View

The ski lodge was beautiful and bustling with life. I hadn't be prepared to face so many people. Of course, Darius was extremely thrilled about this. He doesn't have much expierence with big crowds of people. This was a rare occurnace for him.

Other than my growing anxiety, I was pretty relieved to be getting out and exploring the world around me. I had couped up indoors for a long time, it was nice getting some fresh air. Even though it was freezing outside. I was getting better accustomed to the weather of Alaska.

Against my better judgement, Darius and Alice had talked me into attempting some skiing. That had nearly been a disaster, practically to embarrassing for me to even think about right now.

Let's just say, I had a few new bruises and a wounded ego. I knew that I wouldn't catch on to it, knowing how uncoordinated I was. Thankfully, Darius had caught on and was enjoying himself.

He even met a few other kids around his age; and with Alice supervising, he was spending time with some kids his age. At the moment, they were all at the arcade; bundled up in their snow gear and drinking hot chocolate.

I was thankful for Alice keeping an eye on him; it wasn't that I didn't trust my son around other children. I just worried that something might happen. I wanted him to have a normal life, as normal as possible, making friends is important for a kid his age.

But that wasn't the only reason I was thankful for Alice. Since she is watching Darius for me, that left Edward and I to have some alone time of our own.

We had spent the better half of the afternoon together, sitting by the grand fireplace in the lobby. I was curled up in a large blanket, right beside him; drinking some warm Chia tea. His arm was around me, holding me close to his side.

Was mostly talked, about everything. He told me about his past life; as a human. I took note of how glum he appeared when he spoke of it. Clearly it might of been something that he missed. Being human.

I couldn't relate to it. Why would he want to be human? Just look at me. So plain, weak and helpless. I'd give anything to be like him. There was really only one thing holding me back.

Darius.

There was no way that I could possibly become a vampire when I had a son to raise. It would be too dangerous. If there was even the slightest chance that I would hurt him, it wasn't anything that I was willing to risk.

Sure, I can't imagine myself ever doing something like that... but that doesn't mean that it isn't possible. Demetri had lost control around me... and there have been moments that I thought he would kill me. And he claims to love me.

Edward understood what I meant, he even seemed relieved that I didn't want to turn into a vampire. I wasn't sure what the reason was, but I thought it was best to just change the topic.

There has been something that has been eating away at me. Edward and Alice had both seemed so tense when we first got here. It made me feel like maybe Alice had seen a vision. But I didn't want to bring any attention to that with Darius being around.

I suppose right now wouldn't be an awful time to bring up my suspicions.

"So, what vision did Alice get, when we were just pulling into the parking lot?" I asked quietly taking another sip at my tea.

Edward raisd a brow at me; his mouth closing in a hard line. "You notice everything, don't you?"

"You're avoiding my question." I pointed out with a firm glance in his direction. "I hope you aren't planning on keeping it a secret."

Edward sighed, giving me a frown. "I'd rather not tell you right now. We are having a good time. I'd prefer if we waited until after we enjoyed our day."

Now I was beginning to get worried. "Did something bad happen?"

"Well... yes and no." Edward allowed, he now was wearing a mask of indifference on his face. He was attempting to hide his true emotions on the subject. But I could see through his attempt.

"What's going on Edward." I pushed, moving a little bit away from him to look him in the eye.

As we made eye contact I felt a shiver roll down my spine. His eyes trapped me; making my heart flutter in my chest. I dizzily adverted my eyes from him to regain my composure.

"Monica, has been killed." Edward spoke quietly in my ear.

I turned back to him with shock. I felt my eyes water a little, but I held back my sadness. "How?"

Edward hesitated before replying. "Demetri," Was all he said. "He had... gotton rather upset with her... and ended her life."

At his words I felt my heart drop in my chest. Not only was I filled with sorrow for Monica, but I was filled with rage against Demetri.

"Why is he always killing people? Why does he hurt everyone around him? he is like... some kind of plague." I whispered, forcing my eyes shut as more tears slid down my hot cheeks.

Lightly, Edward sweeped his finger across my cheek, brushing my tears away. "Shh, Bella, it's going to be ok, we won't let anyone else get hurt. I promise."

"How did she get him so upset?"

Again Edward appeared reluctant to speak. "She was using her abilities to control Demetri's emotions. When he was released from her abilities, he was furious... and killed her."

I believed every word that Edward was saying, but it just felt like I wasn't hearing the whole story.

It sounded to me like there was a lot of details being left out.

Should I push for more information on this? Or should I just leave it as is. Did I really want to know what transpired between those two?

I think Edward was right. I didn't want the rest of our day to be ruined, and I knew if I listened any further it would be ruined. So I decided that I would let this go... just for today. I would find out the rest of the details later.

Right now, I was just going to relax with Edward and enjoy our time together.

I sighed, resting my head on his shoulder and allowing myself to snuggle deeper into his side. "I'll let it go for now, maybe later on tonight you can fill in the blanks; that you aren't sharing with me right now."

Edward stared at me in awe. "You are incredibly receptive."

I gave him a slight smile, letting my eyes close. "It's a curse."

"Not if you ask me. It sounds more like a gift."

"Sure, if you are able to find the truth. If not you are just tortured by questions with no answers." I said simply.

Edward nodded, leaning down to give me a soft kiss. "I completely understand, better than you realize. I've been trying for a very long time to find out what's going on in your head." He chuckled.

I laughed with him, blush coming to my cheeks. "As much as I'd like to be completely open and honest with you, I'm relieved that I at least have some privacy for all my embarrassing thoughts."

"What kind of embarrassing thoughts are you having?" Edward wondered with curiosity dancing in his eyes.

I gave him a nudge, hiding my face in his shoulders. "That's for me to know. And you to never find out."

"Stop teasing me." He nuzzled at my neck, leaving a trail of cool kisses down to my shoulder.

My heart was racing faster with each kiss. It was driving me insane, I just wanted him closer. I wanted more of him, all to myself.

But to soon he was pulling away and putting a little space between us. I was about to protest when I head Darius' laughter.

I turned to see Darius and two other kids come running over to Edward and I. Alice was trailing behind them with a cautious on her face.

Her expression concerned me.

"Mom, these are my new friends. Malcom and Zac." Darius said pointing to the two boys that followed him over.

The one boy stood off to the side; looking shy and timid, while the other boy seemed full of energy and came right up to me.

The shy boy caught my attention. He looked pale... almost sickly. He was wrapped up in warmer jackets than the other child and at the top of his head; not on single hair on his head.

"Nice to meet you both." I smiled to them.

"Hi Darius' mom, can Darius come get pizza with us?" The wild looking boy grinned at me.

The sickly kid covered his mouth as he coughed noisily, but didn't speak up. He keep his eyes lowered.

I glanced between Alice and Edward for a moment. They appeared to be having a silent conversation between each other, before Alice turned to me with a slight smile and nod.

"Sure, but I'd like to talk with your parents first," I gave the boys a smile.

The one boy, that was quiet, gave me a nervous look. "Maybe we should go for pizza some other time Malcom." He spoke quietly to the other boy.

Malcom didn't appear to be bothered. "Nah, that's fine. I'll go find my dad." He shrugged his shoulders, before turning back to me. "I'll be right back."

With that, Malcom quickly went running. The other boy; Zac unsteadily followed after him.

Darius smiled widely, taking a seat next to me. "They are so much fun!"

I lightly stroked his head. "I'm glad you made some friends, they seem wonderful." But I couldn't get rid of the nagging suspicion that something wasn't quite right here.

Why was Alice and Edward acting like this? What was going on? Was there something wrong with those two boys?

It wasn't long before the hyper boy returned with another boy. This boy looked about my age. It would be hard to believe that this other boy was the father.

"Hello, my name Will, I'm Malcom and Zac's father." He gave me a sheepish smile.

Malcom was jumping in excitement, moving to sit next to Darius. They began to talk with each other with excitment. Zac on the other hand was tucked behind his father, holding onto his pant leg. He looked nauseaous.

"Nice to meet you, I'm Bella." I held my hand out to him.

We shook hands briefly, before he took a seat across from Edward and I. "Malcom wanted to invite Darius for some pizza and possibly some bowling tonight, if you would be alright with that."

"That sounds nice, where will this be taking place?"

"There is a little pizza shop just a mile down the road, it has an arcade and bowling alley there as well." He replied.

Darius gave me a pleading look. "Please mom, can I go."

"I'd only feel ok for you to go if Alice goes with you." I said turning to peak at Alice.

Alice nodded with a relieved smile coming to her face. "Yes, I'd love to tag along as well. As long as that's ok with you." She spoke now looking towards the father.

He swallowed hard, but nodded with a shaky smile. "Of course, the more the merrier."

The boys now where exloding with excitment.

"What time can I expect Darius back?" I asked.

The father paused, giving it some thought. "I'm sure we can wrap up a few games in just an hour or two."

"Alright, sounds good to me," I turned to Darius with a smile. "Have a good time, and be good. Ok?"

Darius nodded, hugging me tightly. "I'll be good, don't worry." With that, him and Malcom ran off towards the front of the building.

Alice gave me a grin, and walked with the father.

"Nice meeting you," He called back to me, before him and Alice followed after the other two boys. Zac walked slowly behind them.

I turned to Edward when I knew they were out of ear shot. "What was that all about?"

"Alice had sensed something a little off about the family. Nothing sinister. Just off." Edward allowed with a sad look.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, did you notice the weak little boy?" Edward said quietly.

Weak? Was he referring to the shy boy? Zac?

"The one that was hiding behind his father's leg?" I said with a frown. "He did seem really shy and nervous."

"That little boy... is full of cancer... he doesn't have long." Edward said slowly.

At his words I felt the wind get knocked out of me. "What do you mean? How do you know? If he is so sick why is he not in a hospital?"

"Alice saw a vision of this little boy's death, it will be tomorrow night. Will hasn't been able to break the news to Malcom. But Zac knows, he knows that he doesn't have much longer. They decided between the two of them that they don't want to be involved with the hospital or medications. Zac just wants to enjoy what's left of his life." Edward said with a sigh.

Tears filled my eyes. "What kind of cancer does he have?"

"Leukemia," Edward spoke, shaking his head slightly. "It's a nasty illness, I wouldn't wish it upon anyone. Especially a child...with so much of his life ahead of him."

I curled into Edward's side and cried lightly. I felt so bad. I couldn't imagine losing Darius... I wonder how that father will hold himself together. He was young himself.

"Was that boy, Will; really their father?" I asked quietly after a moment. "He seems really young..."

"No, Will was their older brother." Edward said quietly. "He was only lying because their parent's died nearly a month ago in an accident. He is their legal guardian though, he is eighteen."

That is truly sad. I thought that my life was horrible, this just goes to show that someone else has it harder. I should be thankful for what I have.

"I wish there was something... anything I could do to help that family." I said quietly sipping the last of my tea.

"Well, that's why Alice was so eager to tag along with them for tonight. She plans on giving them some much needed money and supplies." Edward said with a small smile.

That warmed my heart. "That's so nice of her. I'm really glad."

"Not only that, but allowing Darius to go out and have fun with those boys... it's exactly what Zac had wanted. Before he passed, he wanted to make a friend... and he did." Edward said kissing the top of my head.

At his words I began to cry again.

It was all so sad. It completely broke my heart. Life could be so unfair. It made me really question the bigger picture and the meaning of our lives.

Edward quietly sat with me and held me close, letting me cry. He gently hummed a sweet melody until I was able to calm myself down.

I sighed, wiping at my eyes; that were now burning and watery. I could barely see. "Maybe we should go somewhere else."

"Where would you like to go?" Edward smiled, gently kissing my forehead. "I'll follow you, until you order me away."

"Well get comfortable, because that isn't happening any time soon." I warned him with a light chuckle. "I think I'd like to try out those hot tubs."

Edward nodded with a crooked smile. "Perfect, I do have a little suprise for you."

I made a face at that. "You know I don't like surprises."

"But you will love this one." He winked at me, before standing and offering me his hand.

I reluctantly nodded and took his hand for him to lead me away and towards the elevators.

I was still a little distracted from the conversation about the boys, I couldn't help but think of them and worry about them. But as we exited the elevator and made it into a room; that Edward had opened with a key card I was amazed by what I saw.

This had to be a deluxe room. There was a huge flat screen, a king sized bed, a full sized refrigerator full of fancy wine and finger foods. And the most suprising of all, a large hot tub sitting in front of a grand fireplace.

The tub was pressed up close to the ceiling-to-floor windows; which gave us a lovely view of the snow covered mountains and thick forests.

"This is gorgeous." I gasped, cautiously entereing the room. I was afriad of touching anything; I'm sure this room was super expensive.

"I thought maybe you would prefer a more private place." Edward smiled slightly.

"This is perfect," I nodded, nervously clutching my tiny bag of swimsuits. "I guess I'll get changed than..."

I was sure if I was ready to show so much skin in front of Edward. What if he thought I was disgusting? What if the swimsuits that I picked made me look... trashy.

Either way, I made my way into the bathroom and closed the door behind me. I shakily pulled out three swimsuits. A black, two piece; with a skirt-like bottom, a red string bikini and a white one-piece.

Alice had made it pretty clear to go with the bikini, but I just didn't know if I could bring myself to even put it on. So I put the white one on. But after analyzing myself in the mirror I decided that it made me look like a child.

I didn't want Edward to think of me as a child, I wanted him to see me as a strong woman; who doesn't need a man, but is interested in him... and being intimate with him.

I tried the black one on next. It felt a little better, it showed a little bit of skin, the top revealed a good amount of cleavage. Surely this would be the best choice of the three. I felt comfortable in it and I didn't look to bad, so I decided on this one.

The moment I walked out I was completely put in awe as I took in Edward's shirtless body. I couldn't force my eyes away from him... He was just so perfect. I could feel myself getting excited. I wanted him. More than I've ever wanted somebody. Was he really mine for the taking? Did he really want me just as much?

"You look absolutely stunning." Edward said; appearing to be just as distracted as me, as his eyes roamed my body.

"Thank you... I could say the same for you." I blushed.

Edward nicely gestured to the hot tub. "It's ready," With a light touch he guided me into the tub.

I took a seat; letting out a huge sigh as I let my body sink down into the steamy water. It felt absolutely amazing, I could already feel the tension leaving my body as Edward sat down just across from me.

He didn't appear to react to the abrupt change in temperature, but his body did appear to relax.

"This feels so good." I sighed, letting my body stretch.

Edward nodded with a grin. "I'm glad you're enjoying it, I've also got you a few things." He said as he leaned back to grab me a glass of wine and a plate of chocolate covered strawberries.

"You know, I'm not quite old enough to be drinking." I chuckled, but took the glass either way, taking a little sip.

It wasn't my first time drinking wine however, Rene would always give me a little, evey new years.

"I thought maybe tonight it would be necessary." Edward gave me a crooked smile.

I eagerly took a bite of the strawberry; enjoying the sweet juices; coupled by the sweetness of the wine. It was a delicious mixture. The alcohol content in this wine was low, but there was just enjoy to loosen me up even further.

At the moment I was the most relax I've felt in years.

"I can't disagree with you." I sighed, taking another drink of the wine. "This is wonderful."

"I'm glad you are enjoying yourself."

There was only one thing that would make this night even better. But I wasn't sure I was brave enough to even speak of it. Surely Edward would think it's to soon... for us to become intimate.

But I couldn't help but wish for it. I trusted Edward, more than I've ever trusted someone. Since the day we have met he has been saving my life, first with my imprisonment with the Volturi and now with Demetri. He has saved me from the abuse and torment of a loveless relationship.

It has always been Edward, from the very beginning, I was just to blind to see it. It was him that I wanted to pledge my life to.

"Edward, I have a question." I said quietly, peaking at him nervously.

"I may have an answer." He chuckled, watching me curiously.

"Well... would you consider... making our relationship official."

Edward smiled widely. "I'd like that very much." He lightly reached across to stroke my cheek. "I've wanted this... for a long time."

I lightly touched his hand; making my way over to sit next to him. I just wanted to be closer. "Me to..."

Slowly he leaned down and pressed his lips to mine. Heat flooded through my body as our lips mashed together.

Passion overtook me; and soon I was in his lap, twisting my hands in his hair. My hormones where raging inside me. I wanted him.

Edward responded with surprise, but he only pulled away for a moment. "Bella, are you sure you want to go any further?" He sounded breathless. "I'm not sure I have the strength to stop once we start this."

"I'm sure." I said, looking him in the eyes. "I've made up my mind. I want you. Only you. For the rest of my life."

With my words, we resumed our heated make-out session. I untied my top; giving it a toss out of the tub; exposing myself to him.

Edward paused, just long enough to ogle my naked body. Lust danced in his eyes, but his response was gentle and full of love and tenderness.

I gasped as I felt the coldness of his hand lightly brush against my breasts.

"You are so beautiful." He whispered, before pulling me to his chest, kissing me deeply.

I pulled him closer, letting out a soft moan as his hands went down to my swimsuit bottoms; slowly pulling them off of me. In the same second he had his bottoms off as well.

He hesitated, peaking up at me; his eyes reflected a wild hunger, but there was still control and restraint. I felt safe and secure, I trusted him. I trusted that he wouldn't hurt me.

I gave him a nod, letting my eyes close.

The moment that he entered me I felt my entire body ignite. The feelings that Edward was bringing out of me was absolutely amazing.

He was so gentle and careful, yet each thrust was full of power and pleasure. It was mind-blowing, and I couldn't hold back my screams of estacy.

And we continued to make love for hours, we only paused a few times for me to catch my breath. It was the best night of my life.

It wasn't until my phone started ringing until I could pull myself away from him. With a heavy breath I slinked out of the hot tub.

Edward watched after me with a content look.

I quickly dug in my back, answering the phone.

"Hello," I tried to steady my breathing enough to not sound suspicious.

"Bella, I'm taking Darius up to your room, are the two of you decent?" Alice's tone sounded light and full of humor.

My face warmed instantly. "A-alice, just give me five minutes."

Her tinkling laugh peeled through the phone, pushing me into further embarrassment. "No rush,

Darius wanted to play a few more arcade games before heading up for bed anyway."

"Thank you." I sighed, and hung up.

I turned to Edward; surprised to see he was already in his clothes and had the hot tub almost completely drained.

"I guess this means goodnight," Edward wondered, eyeing me with curiosity. "Unless you want me to return when Darius falls asleep."

I smiled brightly, moving over to embrace him. "Nothing would make me happier."

He leaned down, lightly pressing his lips to mine; giving me one more kiss, before heading to the window; and disappearing.

Quickly I headed to the bathroom to freshen up. I took a quick shower and put on some fuzzy pajamas that Alice had picked up for me. Right on time, Alice and Darius came in.

"Hey mom, I'm back." Darius grinned tiredly at me.

I went to him, hugging him tightly. "Did you have a good time with your friends?"

"Yeah it was a lot of fun. I really like to bowl." He said with a yawn.

"He won every single game." Alice chuckled, patting the top of his head, before giving me a look.

"I'm heading out, I have a room right across the hall if you need anything."

"Goodnight Alice." Darius waved to her.

"Goodnight." She cooed back to him before making her way out of the room.

"Let's get you cleaned up and ready for bed." I said as I dug through his backpack.

Darius nodded, wiping at his eyes. "Ok,"

I went back into the bathroom and began running the water for the tub, setting out his soap, his sponge and a few toys he usually liked to play with; also I left him some pajamas that matched the ones that I had on.

When he was ready he came in; wrapped in a towel.

I kissed the top of his head and allowed him privacy. I walked back out into the room and got comfortable in bed. Turning the tv, I decided on watching the news. Just to break the overwhelming silence in the room. I didn't pay much attention to it, instead I just imagined seeing Edward again. I could almost feel his gentle embrace.

I couldn't wait to be reunited with him again

It wasn't long before my phone was ringing; brining me out of my thoughts. I didn't recognize the phone, but decided to answer it anyway.

"Hello?" I spoke, clearing my throat.

"Bella... it's Demetri."

At the sound of his voice I felt my heart drop in my chest.

"H-hi... how are you?" Could he tell how awkward I sounded? Does he already know that I was unfaithful to him? Guilt pinched at me for a moment. Until I recalled why I had made my choices.

He wasn't the man that I loved. Not anymore. I shouldn't feel guilty about anything I choose to do.

But still, there was a part of me that was ashamed.

"I'm... not doing very well to be honest." He spoke from the other end of the phone. "I've really missed you."

I swallowed hard. "Darius has missed you."

"But not you? I suppose I can understand."

"It's more complicated than that."

There was a slight pause in the conversation and than a long exhale from Demetri. "I'm not good for you Bella, I'm sure you are beginning to notice that... I'm not blind to your suffering. And it's all my fault."

I was shocked at his words. "Things have been... impossible between us. I'm sure you are just as unhappy as I am."

"You're right. I have a lot of issues that I need to personally work out. Before I can be the man that you deserve. Until than, I think we should end our relationship. I don't want to hurt you anymore."

Relief filled me instantly. But there was a slight sting of rejection I felt pulling in my chest. I may no longer love him... but he was a very important person in my life... he helped me raise Darius... he's been here for me for a long time. I truly hoped that we could still possibly be friends.

"I completely agree with you. It would be for the best if we didn't see each other anymore."

"But... I will come back for you. When I have fixed all my personal issues, I'll be back to take you. You still belong to me." He said with warning in his tone.

"I'm afraid not, I'm done here Demetri. I'd like to move on from this... as friends. I just... don't want to have a future with you anymore." I forced the words out.

Again there was a long pause between us, it was so long that I had thought that he hung up.

"We'll see about that." Was the last thing he said, before he hung up.

I shakily let the phone drop on the bed, tears sliding down my cheeks.

Just when I thought I wouldn't have to ever cry over that jerk again... here I was... crying over him again.

"Momma? Are you ok?" Darius called out, standing in the doorway of the bathroom; dressed in his cute pajamas.

Quickly I dabbed at my tears, offering him a strained smile. "Yes, of course I am." I opened my arms out to him. "Come on in and get comfortable."

He did as I said and climbed into bed and into my arms. "You were fighting with daddy, weren't you?"

I looked to him with quite surprise. "How did you know I was talking with your father?"

"That look that you had on your face. You only look like this when you are fighting with him." Darius said with a frown.

I sighed, and leaned my head back against the pillows. "Yes, I was speaking with him. I let him know my choice to leave. It turns out, he was calling to end our relationship as well. I guess for once we had agreed on something."

Darius sniffed, hiding his face in the pillows. "What are we going to do now? Where are we going to live?"

"You don't have to worry about things like that. Don't fret, let that be something I'll worry about."

In honesty I had no idea what my options where. But I didn't want to think about that now. There was too much going on. I just wanted to focus on the things that made me happy.

Darius and Edward. That would pull me though this nightmare.

He nodded, and curled into me more, watching towards the tv with a glum look. "Mom, do you think Zac is going to be ok?"

I hesitated. "Why do you ask?"

"Well... his blood just smelled off... like he was sick." He said with a slight frown.

"He was sick honey, he has cancer." I said gently.

"Does that mean... he is going to die?"

This was a difficult conversation to have, especially with someone young. I didn't want to scare him, or upset him. I wasn't sure how say it to him.

"I don't know honey, that's the down side of being human... one day we all will die. There is no telling when."

"Even you?" He looked to me with horror.

I nodded slightly, hugging him closer to me. "Even me... unless I was to become a vampire."

Darius looked slightly relieved by my words. But he didn't comment any further on that part of the conversation.

"Can't we do something for Zac?" He wondered.

"What would you have in mind?"

"Maybe I can send him some toys." He said with a thoughtful look.

"I'm sure we can arrange that." I said with a nod.

With that Darius smiled widely. "That's awesome, thank you momma."

I gently kissed the top of his head.

It wasn't long after that, he finally drifted off to sleep. I closed my eyes for just a short time; but the thought of Edward pushed me up out of bed.

Like he had promised, he was waiting just outside the window. I opened the window to let him in.

The brisk winter air flew past us; bringing a shiver down my spine.

He wrapped his arms around me, planting a kiss on my forehead. "Are you already my love?"

I nodded, feeling some of my previous strength return. "I'm ok... now that you're here." I looked up into his eyes; getting lost for a moment. "You heard it didn't you? The conversation with Demetri?"

Edward gave me a short nod. "I did..."

I sighed, leaning in to rest my head on his shoulder. "Things are finally over. Now I can... focus on moving forward. And being happy. It's... almost like I'm finally free."

"I'll always be here for you Bella. I love you." Edward spoke quietly, kissing me tenderly.

"I love you too Edward." I whispered back; my heart filling with joy. "Forever,"

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Years!